mou5 gung1 dak1 sam1冇公德心
Jyutpingmou5 gung1 dak1 sam1
Yalemóuh gūng dāk sām
Definition
Lacking public spirit; antisocial or inconsiderate of the public interest and community welfare.
colloquialpeopledescriptions
How it's used
Public behavior in Hong Kong is heavily judged through the lens of this specific phrase. It is the go-to label for anyone violating social norms like talking loudly on public transport, jumping queues, or failing to clean up after pets. The term carries a strong sense of moral condemnation rather than just describing a lack of manners.
Examples
It is really lacking in civic-mindedness for him to eat on the MTR.
How can you be so lacking in civic-mindedness as to litter?
Related words
Common phrases
extremely lacking in civic-mindedness
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with simply being rude or impolite. It specifically refers to actions that negatively impact the public space or the collective well-being of the community.
Grammar color guide
Noun
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Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
